Eeny-Meeny-Miney-Mo

The memories of my childhood - not unlike yours probably - are filled with moments in which I found myself huddled among my peers, our feet or knuckles forming a sloppy sort of circle while one of us sets about the formidable task of determining who was going to be "it". No matter if the rhyme was "Eeny meeny miney mo.." or "Bubble gum, bubble gum in a dish...", the goal was to keep it random so no one could be accused of playing favorites. Anticipation was just part of the fun.

As a child I didn't mind that things were arbitrary. For the most part my days weren't planned. Other than organized sports or piano lessons, my days were pretty much my own. Pretend my dolls are having a giant slumber party which include a giant pink and white puppy dog? Sure. Lip synch the entire Muppet Movie album for hours on end? Why not! Hakuna Matata, man.

However, most people they see chaos as their mortal enemy. Our days are planned. Our trips are planned. Our meals are planned. Not much is left to chance these days. Don't even think about being spontaneous, we've got things to do, right?

Guess what - and moms know this more than anyone - our plans are worthless. Our plans are overwritten by an almighty God. And thank goodness because we'd get it all wrong. God has a great plan for us, and when we do things our way we are only getting in His way. That doesn't mean you leave everything to chance. I'm pretty sure none of us are going to buy a house on the Eeny-Meeny-Miney-Mo Method. Instead talk to God about His plan. Listen to what He has to say about your life. Trust me, He cares enough He'll tell you.

Heavenly Father,

Please forgive us for doing things our own way. Please forgive those times when we thought that we knew best and made decisions without you. Give us the ability to be still and know you. Open our ears to hear your word and your desires for us. Thank you for loving us enough to make a fool-proof plan if only we would listen to you. Throughout the bible you have revealed that your guidance is patient, kind, and loving. Help us to trust in your word and to not worry when things go awry. Your plan is better than our plan. Your ways are better than our ways. 
Amen

"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."" - Jeremiah 29:11 (NIV)

For The Team

I'm sometimes amazed at the degree to which some sports fans take their enthusiasm. You've got your yellers. Your face painters. Your extra large foam fingers. Some fans are so dedicated they withstand extreme weather: rain, snow, blistering heat and freeze-your-toes-off cold are mere blips on the radar with these folks. They are unfazed. It's almost as if there is an unspoken ranking of fandom; the more adversity you endure the bigger fanatic you are.

Outward expression of these devotees is just the beginning. Batting averages, field goal percentages, handicaps, and player statistics flow easily off the tongue as if they were reciting their own birth date. It's typical water cooler talk, perhaps even dare I say, expected? Did you see that game over the weekend? How about that incredible play that team made? My team beat your team. Go team!

As moms our favorite team likely consists of players who aren't destined for the NBA, NFL, or PGA. But there we are, in our matching team t-shirt, wearing our giant button with the sweetest face. All of it proclaiming our loyalty to our little Johnny Football or Susie Soccer. We've got our game face on and a box of goldfish crackers to celebrate with. If only Little League had foam fingers.

How hard is it for us as Christians to have this much enthusiasm for God? Are we willing to go to the extreme for Him? What if the questions at the water cooler went like this:

• Did you hear about that great thing God did for me over the weekend?
• What about that incredible miracle God did?
• My God (and yours) loves you.
• Go God!

Heavenly Father,

Show me how to be a champion for you. Let me be bold in my exuberance for you. Help me to proclaim my love for you around others. Don't let me be sidelined by my own fears and reservations. I want to proudly share with others the blessings you have shown in my life. Open my eyes and my heart to those who need to hear you glorified. May my outward appearance reflect my loyalty to you, Lord. You deserve my praise, my adoration, and my worship. Give me the desire to study your word, God, so that I may learn all about you. Scripture reveals how your abilities surpass all others. When I feel defeated, show me all the ways you have overcome the enemy. Remind me that I cannot lose when I have you in my life. You are not only the coach but the star player and you make me better when I'm on your team.
Amen


"The Lord is my strength and my song; he has given me victory. This is my God, and I will praise him - my father’s God, and I will exalt him!" - Exodus 15:2 (NLT)

Just Twittering Away

Are you a Tweeter? Do you like to Tweet? Are you all things Tweet-able? 

Just a MOMent is pleased to announce that we have arrived on Twitter. Come find us here and Tweet along!

Let It Go

Disney   

I'm sure by now you've probably heard the song from the movie "Frozen" called 'Let It Go'. Even if you haven't seen the movie you've probably heard the song at least once, twice or ten times. Seems like everyone from the Marines to your grandma is singing that song. One quick Google search and you'll find a myriad of renditions of the song - some quite enjoyable. In fact, just the other day at the park my boys and I were serenaded by a group of seven year old girls who found the chorus so intoxicating that they mindlessly sang it over and over. And over. And over.

I'll admit, it's a great song. It helps that the original singer is quite talented and sings it perfectly. And since the catchy chorus tends to have a lasting impression, I've found myself singing it like a seven year old girl running free in a park - if only in my head.

However, it's become more than just a sweet tune to occupy my brain at random times, it's become somewhat of a mantra for me. A reminder, if you will, to literally let it go. Frustrated at the insensitive driver that just cut me off? Let it go. Annoyed with the amount of time it took my boys to get ready for bed? Let it go. Washing machine leaking like a river into the hall? Let it go.

I love what Jesus tells us in the New Living Translation of Matthew 6, "Can all your worries add a single moment to your life?" Think about that. That's Jesus' way of saying, let it go, girlfriend.

And not just that, He goes on to tell us, "... but your heavenly Father already knows all your needs. Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need." That's like thinking you'd like an ice cream cone and Jesus suddenly hands you a huge hot fudge sundae with everything you ever wanted on top. Then He says, Dad wanted you to have this. He knows all our needs. God is telling us, let it go, girlfriend, I've got this.

Generous Giving Father,

Thank you for knowing what we need before we can even express it. Thank you for the promise that you will supply us with all that we need. We long to fully realize the extent of your love. We know that we fall short in the area of worry, Lord. Please give us a renewed heart so that can more easily let things go. Change our heart so that it is quick to look to you and not of the world; a heart that is at peace and not waging war against the things that have no meaning. Grow our faith in such a way that the cares of this world are but a speck compared to you. Just as you nurture the birds, we can rest knowing that you also clothe and feed us. We let it go, God, we let it go to you.

Amen

“So don’t worry about these things, saying, ‘What will we eat? What will we drink? What will we wear?’ These things dominate the thoughts of unbelievers, but your heavenly Father already knows all your needs.Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need. 

So don’t worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring its own worries. Today’s trouble is enough.” Matthew 6:31-34 (NLT)

More Vow Than Wow

I saw on Facebook recently where a fellow mom asked the question, "Does your husband wow you?" I'm sad to say that some of the responses were disheartening. Seems to me there are a lot of women who are unhappy if their husband doesn't "wow" them every hour of every day.

Listen ladies, let's put the same question to your husbands. Does your wife wow you? I'm sure he's going to be quick to comment things like: Oh yes, I love it when she does the dishes. That BLT she made me knocked my socks off. Oooh la la, when she meets me at the door in her yoga pants and college t-shirt I'm in heaven.

Why is it that we expect our men to "wow" us when we're doing very little "wow-ing" of our own? I hear you, I know you're busy taking care of the kids, doing the laundry, and fixing snacks. But ladies, your husband is busy in his own right. Did he just put in 8 or more hours at work? Sat in traffic for 45 minutes? Mow the yard? Fix the leaky faucet? Did he tuck the kids in bed while you did those dishes? Did he literally bring home that bacon you asked him to pick up on the way home?

Don't get me wrong. I'm guilty. I'm so guilty of expecting more "wow" from my husband that they should probably start the Naggers Anonymous club just for me. But the truth is when I sit back and look for those "wow" moments they aren't so hard to find. And I bet you can find some too. And if you can't, I challenge you to give him a few of your own special "wow" moments and just see how he reacts.

Truth is, you didn't stand in front of a bunch of family and friends and vow to "wow" each other. You vowed to take care of each other. To love each other. Help each other out even when you don't feel like it. I know it may be hard to recollect the exact words you used as the rings were passed, but I guarantee no one was promising they'd be in "wow" mode all the time. 

Date night tip: pull out that wedding video or album and reminisce and you'll see that I'm right!

Focus on what you did promise and do that. Help your husband when he comes home by honoring his time. Be supportive and encouraging as he tackles his daily obligations. Be loving and gentle when you communicate your needs and desires.

Focus on the vow not the wow.

Heavenly Father,

Help me to focus on the vow not the wow. Help me remember what it truly means to be a loving wife. Give me the gentle and quiet spirit that I need to love my husband. When I feel the urge to be resentful and angry, give me Your grace and forgiveness. Help me to recognize my husband's needs and the desire to meet them with a joyful heart. 

Amen

"You should clothe yourselves instead with the beauty that comes from within, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is so precious to God." - 1 Peter 3:4 (NLT)

Prayers For Oklahoma

Our hearts are saddened by the devastation that was left in the wake of the deadly tornadoes recently in the Oklahoma City area. Please continue to diligently pray for everyone in that area.

Heavenly Father,

We lift up the people of Moore, Oklahoma and those immediately affected by the tornado. We ask that you bring comfort to those who have lost friends and family and to those who are desperately searching for lost loved ones. Please be with any survivors that may be trapped or waiting to be reunited with their family. Send your Holy Spirit to give them peace and hope during this time. Lord we ask that you be with those who have lost their homes. As they sift through the rubble that was once their lives, we ask that you put your arms around them. Lead them in the direction to find shelter, warmth and solace. 

Lord we ask that you send your angels to comfort the children in that area. Give them loving arms to cling to, send them love and joy when none seem to exist. Also, preserve their innocence Lord, shield their eyes to the horrors of death and tragedy. Take away any fear or trepidation that overwhelms them. Fill their hearts and minds with Your love, Lord.

And Father, please be with the rescue workers who work tirelessly to uncover survivors. Give them the stamina and wisdom to seek life out of the horrific debris. Thank you for those that run to the devastation to lend a helping hand. Thank you to those who see a need and strive to fulfill it.

For those of us who stand from afar feeling helpless during times like these, may be hug our children a little tighter today. May we appreciate those little annoyances in life as we remember those who have lost so much.

Amen

"So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand." Isaiah 41:10

Blindspot

One Saturday I was out running errands with my two boys. In and out of the car. In and out of the store. Rinse and repeat. You know what I'm talking about right? It's the Mommy Mantra.

We finally finished our last stop, and as I'm creeping my way through the busy grocery store parking lot, I pass in front of the grocery store entrance. While inching along, I didn't notice a man walking with his daughter coming out of the store to my left. They obviously had the right of way, so they walk forward to cross in front of me. However, I only saw them at the very last second when the man was close enough to touch my car. Fortunately, since I wasn't going very fast, I was able to stop in time and let them pass.

I was horrified I hadn't seen them. He was even more horrified that I hadn't yielded and gave me the look to make sure I knew it. Where had they come from?! Why didn't I see them?! Simple. They were in my blindspot. You know, that annoying part of the car that keeps the roof and the windows in place? That is exactly the spot that obstructed my view. Although I thought I was being careful, I failed to recognize what was happening right in front of me (or at least to the immediate left).

Do you have something in your life obstructing your view? Or maybe a blindspot keeping you from seeing something clearly? It could be a thought, an addiction, or maybe even a friend or family member. We all have things hindering us from truly fulfilling God's will. When people, things and situations are against God's command, it's easy for us to overlook them. It's our very own personal blindspot. And unlike the one in the car, we can't just look around it anymore, we have to get rid of it.

Heavenly Father,

Please help me to recognize that area in my life which is causing a blindspot. There's something or someone hindering me from seeing the truth about myself and the people around me. I'm sorry I have let myself be blinded by this obstacle. I want to be made aware of what is keeping me from my full potential with You. Please remove any thought, deceit, or object standing in my way. I have believed the enemy's lies that I don't need to see things Your way. I believed people when they told me it was just the way I was, and that I didn't need to change my perspective. Lord I ask you tear down walls I have built to separate myself from others. Break down the strongholds weighing me down. Expose those areas of my life keeping me from Your will, Lord. Give me a new lens that reveals a new perspective on my position as a wife, a mother, a daughter, a friend. I need You to reveal Your love to me, Lord. Let my focus be on You, and not my defeats or weaknesses. I claim victory in this area of my life, Lord. Your vision will be my vision.

In Jesus' name, amen.

"For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord." Romans 8:38, 39

Mommy Mondays

"Being a mom is my greatest joy."

"I love being a mommy."

"Motherhood is my calling."

I'm pretty sure the moms who said the above didn't say them on a Monday - or maybe even a Tuesday or Wednesday. While being a mom has its joys, there are days when the joy just never seems to show up. Cranky babies, whiny toddlers, rebellious teenagers, and fighting siblings can happen any day of the week. How often have you woken to find nobody in the house is happy? Breakfast is denied. Shoelaces are broken. Car keys are lost. And somebody forgot to mention they had homework due that day. It's enough to wear a mommy out. Unfortunately there's no human resources to call in a personal day, a mommy must punch the clock as usual - even if she literally wants to punch the clock. Take a deep breath. Look away from the spilled Cheerios and focus on the Heavenly Father who is ready to scoop you up in His arms.

Father,

It's been a day when nothing seems to go right we are left feeling unloved, unappreciated and discouraged. Renew our spirit and give us the strength to handle the little stuff as well as the big. Give us patience with our children. Make our tone loving and kind despite how frustrated we feel on the inside. Let us look to our great provider to show us how to love with gentleness and lead with tenderness. Replace our anger with delight. Turn our dismay to gladness. Our journey may take dips and turns but help us to see the reward that awaits a faithful follower.

Amen

"And now, dear brothers and sisters, one final thing. Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise. Keep putting into practice all you learned and received from me - everything you heard from me and saw me doing. Then the God of peace will be with you." Philipians 4:8,9

Random Acts of Kindness - Day 2

Hopefully you were challenged by yesterday's post to look for an opportunity to perform a RAK. And if you didn't get your chance, that's ok. Continue to pray that the Lord will show you when and who you are to bless this week.

You know the old saying, it's better to give than to receive? For most of us we would agree with that. As moms we probably find pleasure in giving our children something special that makes their eyes light up. And nothing is more rewarding than to have your spouse or child embrace you with gratitude for something you did. However, there are people in our lives in which we give and give and give and never receive anything. It's the kind of relationship where you find yourself continually being disappointed because expectations weren't met. It's exhausting to give so much of yourself and yet never see a return on your investment. Often these situations leave you feeling bitter and broken hearted. This is especially hard when that relationship is with someone close to you.

While on this earth Jesus encountered many who would not reciprocate. He healed, loved, and comforted - and yet some turned their back on him when he journeyed to the cross. Imagine how disappointed he feels when we let him down. Fortunately, his love and forgiveness is greater than we could ever know and is not dependent upon reciprocity.

Heavenly Father,

We come to you with hearts that are broken. We have reached out and made ourselves vulnerable to someone who took advantage of us. Despite how kind, loving, and compassionate we are to certain people they continue to withhold gratitude. Please Lord, give us your perseverance when we just want to give up. When kindness is returned with anger and rebellion, give us your patience. Lord we ask that you take away feelings of resentment. Holy Spirit fill us with your fruits so that we can reach out to the difficult people in our lives. Give us a desire to show kindness no matter what we receive in return. We want to be a generous giver without regard to what we would receive. Thank you Lord that you love us despite our will or ability to reciprocate. You are such a good God!

Amen

"Work willingly at whatever you do, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people. Remember that the Lord will give you an inheritance as your reward, and that the Master you are serving is Christ." Colossians 3:23, 24

Random Acts of Kindness - Day 1

 

Have you ever been the recipient of a random act of kindness (RAK) from a total stranger? Maybe someone took care of your coffee at Starbucks. Or a neighbor anonymously mowed your lawn. Maybe you were fortunate enough to find yourself at the receiving end of a large gift such as a car or money for medical bills. If you've ever been on the receiving end of RAK you know just how good that makes you feel, especially if you're going through a difficult time. But an act of kindness doesn't have to be some grandiose display; a kind word, an act of thoughtfulness, or a pleasant smile are just a few simple ways to show kindness to those around you. 

In the bible we see all ways in which Jesus shows kindness. Of course Jesus is not random, his deliberate kindness is an integral part of his ministry here on earth. He spoke kindly to the woman at the well when the rest of the world was ignoring her. He was kind to the lepers while others shunned them. He washed the disciples feet when they should have been kneeling to worship Him. Jesus was still kind as he hung dying on the cross when he sought God's forgiveness for those who had been malicious toward Him. Kindness means humbling yourself when you'd rather be self-righteous. Being kind means you have to lay yourself down despite how you feel about that person or situation. Kindness is easy when we like someone, but Jesus was kind to all - the poor, the sinners, the hopeless, the diseased, and even to those who tortured Him.

Heavenly Father,

What a blessing it is when everyone is kind to one another. But we know in this world we run across all sorts of people who are inconsiderate, unthoughtful, and spiteful. Lord, we ask that you be with us today as we encounter others. Despite our feelings, we need you to help us to be good-hearted and compassionate to others. When that angry driver is riding our bumper, let us be the first to be considerate and let them pass. For that mom in the store with the kid throwing an inconsolable fit, let us be the one person who smiles and tells her she's doing a good job. Show us all the ways today in which just a kind word or friendly glance would make someone's day. We're here to shine your light, Lord. Make us a beacon in this dark world. Let not one opportunity for kindness pass us today. Keep our eyes open and our hearts soft to those hurting around us. Thank you Lord for the kindness you have shown us through your sacrifice on the cross. We pray that today we would be a perfect example of your gracious love. In Jesus' glorious name,

Amen


"The Lord is righteous in everything he does; he is filled with kindness." Psalm 145:17

"Since God chose you to be the holy people he loves, you must clothe yourselves with tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience." Colossians 3:12

Saturday Scripture: God's Glory

"Be exalted, O God, above the heavens;

let your glory be over all the earth."

Psalm 57:11

 

On Our Hearts: Breaking Free

You might have seen the movie 127 Hours, or heard about the hiker Aron Ralston who found himself trapped when a boulder fell on his arm. Unable to move the boulder or his arm, for five days Aron was all alone and eventually he was forced to take drastic measures to save his own life. Fortunately, Aron lived to share his story and his tale of survival has been an inspiration to many.

You probably have not experienced a situation quite like Aron's, but you may find yourself trapped in a different way. Perhaps someone has put you in a circumstance that is out of your control. Or you may have an addiction to drugs, food, or alcohol. You might even be trapped in your own emotions of anger, bitterness, or unforgiveness. It might feel as though you have a huge weight of your own that is pinning you down, making you incapable of experiencing joy, love, or peace.

What "boulder" do you need to move from your life? And if you are unable to move that "boulder", what are you willing sacrifice to get yourself out from under that trap? God can help you escape whatever has bound you. He has the power to move mountains and release us from bondage.

Heavenly Father,

We ask that you open our eyes to whatever it is that has us pinned down. Show us the circumstances or people that have put a weight on our ability to cope and deal with life. Lord, we want your Holy Spirit to enter our lives so that we may experience its fruit. Replace worry, anger, and sadness, with your peace, love and joy. Reveal those things that which we may need to sacrifice. Give us strength to let go of the vices that have been holding us back. Pour out your power to overcome our weaknesses and cover our imperfections. Lord, we desire freedom from our own binding emotions. We long for you to break the chains that have been holding us back from doing your will. We thank you, Jesus, for your ultimate sacrifice that can cut us loose from all that confines us. We praise your Holy name so that you may do good works through us. We submit our lives to you, Lord. We humbly lay ourselves down so that you may claim the victory.

Amen

"You reached down from heaven, and you lifted me from deep in the ocean.You rescued me from enemies, who were hateful and too powerful for me. On the day disaster struck, they came and attacked, but you defended me. When I was fenced in, you freed and rescued me because you love me." Psalm 18:16-19 (CEV)

On Our Hearts: Vow Renewal

"To love and to cherish, till death do us part." If you've been married a while those words may seem like all but a distant memory now, but there was a day where you probably nervously recited them back to the love of your life. A covenant vow that was pledged in front of your family and friends. An intimate promise that was extended to your husband only. However, it wasn’t just for that one day. Those words don’t have an expiration date and neither does your marriage. God wants us to be a loving, honoring, and respectful wife. And we do that not by words we say at a ceremony but how we treat our spouse every day. How are you continuing to love and to cherish your spouse?
 

 

Heavenly Father,

Thank you for the man whom I call my husband. Show me how you want me to love him. Let my heart be open to him. May my words be tender and honoring toward him. Help me to become the wife that you want me to be. Show me how to cherish my husband and the moments that we have together and with our family. Let me become a sacred place for him to share his innermost secrets with me. Let our communication be based on love, trust, and respect for each other. Give me the desire to pursue my husband. May our marriage grow more dynamic and intimate as the years go by. Thank you for our marriage, Lord. Thank you for your perfect example of love so that we can show that same love to our spouse.

Amen

 ^"Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres." 1 Corinthians 13:4-7

On Our Hearts: People Pleaser Pitfall

Is my hair just right? Do these shoes go with my outfit? Am I standing in the right spot? Did I say the right thing? What are they going to think if I do that? How many times have these type of thoughts passed through your mind? Every time you leave the house you probably check your make-up or your outfit in the mirror at least once. If you've ever walked into a crowded room you've probably wondered how you were going to be received and what others were thinking. It's hard not to care about what others think of us. Society tells us that we need to have the whitest teeth, the trendiest purse, and the perfect body.

But do you care what God thinks about you? Are your attitudes and actions pleasing to Him? If you're a Believer in Christ you know that Jesus is our redeemer and we don't need to be perfect for Him to love us. But what if we spent less time trying to please strangers and more time trying to please God?

Dear Father God,

Thank you for creating us perfect in your eyes. On this earth we are imperfect and often fail in how we act, how we dress, and in what we say. Thank you for loving us just where we are. We ask that you help us to keep our focus on you. When we start to look to the world for validation, remind us that we have a King in heaven who doesn't require our clothing to be immaculate, You clothe us in Your garment of salvation. When we fuss about not having the right talent or skill, remind us that we are expertly made in Your sight. And if we stumble and reveal all of our flaws, give us Your grace and humbleness to cover our blemishes.

Amen

"As for other matters, brothers and sisters, we instructed you how to live in order to please God, as in fact you are living. Now we ask you and urge you in the Lord Jesus to do this more and more. For you know what instructions we gave you by the authority of the Lord Jesus." 1 Thessalonians 4:1-2

On Our Hearts: Bland No More

Have you ever made a meal and then discovered that you left out that one key ingredient? That one seasoning or spice that provides all the flavor? Instead of a mouth-watering feast you ended up with a tasteless flop. Spices enhance the flavors; it's still beef, chicken or potatoes only better, much better. Of course you could live without it, but if there's no zip what's the point?

This is how God feels about you when you're bland. Are you lacking flavor in your spiritual walk? Are you just vanilla for God? Do you enhance the room when you gather with friends and family or are you weak and forgettable? Do you sprinkle God's love everywhere you go and leave a pleasant taste for Jesus? You don't have to be a culinary expert, just ask God to infuse you with His word.

Dear Heavenly Father,

Thank you for the seasonings that enrich our food and our lives. You have given us so many flavor combinations; some sweet, some savory. Lord, show us how we can add flavor to the lives of those we touch. Forgive us for being tasteless and indifferent. We no longer want to be bland, we want to be You so that others will hunger for You. You have given us all the ingredients, we just have to follow the recipe. When we measure and integrate Your word into our lives, it's easy to reveal the heavenly banquet that You have prepared. You are the Alpha and Omega, Lord - that means that You are the one who cultivates the thirst and then You are the one who quenches it. What a glorious God you are! You are the sweet aroma among the stench of our society. Praise You Father that You are able to use us to pour out Your flavor on the world.

Amen


"Let me tell you why you are here. You're here to be salt-seasoning that brings out the God-flavors of this earth. If you lose your saltiness, how will people taste godliness? You've lost your usefulness and will end up in the garbage." Matthew 5:13

On Our Hearts: Knight in Shining Armor

He leaves his socks by the bed or forgets to put the cap back on the toothpaste - that's right ladies, I'm talking about your husband. That one you stood beside and vowed to love and to cherish. Time has passed and you may look at him now and think he's just an ordinary guy, but he's still your knight in shining armor. Yes, I realize we don't live in medieval times and your husband probably doesn't resemble a noble knight no more than your home resembles a majestic castle. But he desires the adoration and respect just as those brave knights of ancient days had.


Is your knight's armor a little rusty and in need of some polishing? Well then get out the cloth and start scrubbing. Just like the silver your grandmother handed down to you, it's not going to get sparkly and shiny just by sitting in a drawer. Your husband is the same way. You may not have intentionally left him to sit idly by while you take care of the kids, the house, your job or whatever else you've committed yourself to. Take the time right now to take care of him. He's just waiting for you to carefully reveal the hidden layer that attracted you to him. However, instead of using polish apply words of praise. Instead of a soft cloth try buffing him with hugs and kisses. Make his armor shine so bright that he's reflecting you!

Father God,

Thank you so much for the man that you have given me to be my husband. You have divinely put us together to glorify you, Lord. Help me to overlook his blemishes and imperfections. Instead show me my flaws Lord and give me your wisdom and guidance that I may overcome my own faults. Lord show me how I can demonstrate true love to my husband. Give me the desire and ability to make him shine. Even when he I feel he is least deserving, may I still give him the honor he deserves. Let me fulfill his righteous desires and be the wife he longs for.

Amen

"A wife should put her husband first, as she does the Lord. A husband is the head of his wife, as Christ is the head and the Savior of the church, which is his own body. Wives should always put their husbands first, as the church puts Christ first. Ephesians 5:22 - 24

"Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes." Ephesians 6:10, 11

On Our Hearts: Three Simple Words

Just do it. What do think when you hear those words? Perhaps a popular shoe company comes to mind. Maybe you see images of sculpted athletes in their quest to achieve success. Hard to believe that just three simple words (and a large advertising budget) would have the ability to motivate and inspire. However, I think there is another set of three words that has an even greater ability to touch lives. God is love. Some poets, song writers, and artists have spent their entire lives trying to portray what love is and there's the answer right there in the bible. It's so simple, and yet so lost on so many people. Fortunately God doesn't need a mega-million advertising campaign complete with sports stars, two-page magazine spreads, or a 30 second TV spot during half-time - He's got you!

Heavenly Father,

Thank you for your love. 1 John 4 tells us that we must love one another, but in order to do that we must accept your love. We are so thankful Lord that you are able to love us despite all the despicable things we have done. You love us unconditionally, and now it's our turn. It's our turn to share that love with the world, to reach out to those who don't know you. It's our responsibility to show our family, our neighbors, and everyone we come in contact with who you are, God. Let us wait no more, we're done with excuses. Lift us up over the obstacles that stand in our way, remove the fear that holds us back and show us those who need your love the most. Lord, we are moms with a special assignment and we will go. We will go out in our community, our nation and then to the world to tell others three simple words: God is love.

Amen

"Real love isn't our love for God, but his love for us. God sent his Son to be the sacrifice by which our sins are forgiven. Dear friends, since God loved us this much, we must love each other." 1 John 4:10,11

On our Hearts- Parenting

Since becoming a mom of two, I cannot tell you how many times I have compared my two girls. Maybe not intentionally but my oldest is the first and only experience I have. My two daughters could not be further apart in personality, demeanor, and attitude. I often catch myself exasperated by my youngest who is three and recently I have realized I have been unfair. 'Little bit' is as strong-willed as they come, determined to get her way, but incredibly loving and loyal. I have been reading up on how to parent a strong willed child, what I have learned is less about her and more about myself. You see, as a mom it is my job to look at her as she is, not to compare her to her older sibling or anyone else. Does God compare me to another? We are all created uniquely, individually, and purposefully. I truly believe that 'Little bit' will grow up with these wonderful traits to achieve whatever she wants. I need to remind myself that I cannot parent both of my children the same because they are not the same. What motivates one will not necessarily work for the other.

Father,
Being a mom is hard, being a parent is hard. I know as a child of Yours I have failed, faltered, not listened, and have been defiant. I pray that I can be a good parent to both of my children, to parent them individually, to look at them as unique. You have created each of them purposefully, and I am so grateful for that. Help me to be a good mother, to not just try to parent them but remember to pray for them and with them. Help me to stay calm in the moments I need it, to step back and look at the whole picture. Help me to embrace 'Little bit', direct and guide her the way she needs to be.

Amen


"Oh yes, you shaped me first inside, then out; you formed me in my mother's womb. I thank you, High God—you're breathtaking! Body and soul, I am marvelously made! I worship in adoration—what a creation! You know me inside and out, you know every bone in my body; You know exactly how I was made, bit by bit, how I was sculpted from nothing into something. Like an open book, you watched me grow from conception to birth; all the stages of my life were spread out before you, The days of my life all prepared before I'd even lived one day." Psalm 139: 13-16

Special Day Scripture: Mom

This week's Saturday Scripture was delayed in order to honor the most important women in the world. All of you!

Happy Mother's Day!

A good woman is hard to find,
and worth far more than diamonds.
Her husband trusts her without reserve,
and never has reason to regret it.
Never spiteful, she treats him generously
all her life long.

She shops around for the best yarns and cottons,
and enjoys knitting and sewing.
She's like a trading ship that sails to faraway places
and brings back exotic surprises.

She's up before dawn, preparing breakfast
for her family and organizing her day.
She looks over a field and buys it,
then, with money she's put aside, plants a garden.

First thing in the morning, she dresses for work,
rolls up her sleeves, eager to get started.
She senses the worth of her work,
is in no hurry to call it quits for the day.

She's skilled in the crafts of home and hearth,
diligent in homemaking.
She's quick to assist anyone in need,
reaches out to help the poor.

She doesn't worry about her family when it snows;
their winter clothes are all mended and ready to wear.
She makes her own clothing,
and dresses in colorful linens and silks.

Her husband is greatly respected
when he deliberates with the city fathers.
She designs gowns and sells them,
brings the sweaters she knits to the dress shops.

Her clothes are well-made and elegant,
and she always faces tomorrow with a smile.
When she speaks she has something worthwhile to say,
and she always says it kindly.

She keeps an eye on everyone in her household,
and keeps them all busy and productive.
Her children respect and bless her;
her husband joins in with words of praise:
"Many women have done wonderful things,
but you've outclassed them all!"

Charm can mislead and beauty soon fades.
The woman to be admired and praised
is the woman who lives in the Fear-of-God.
Give her everything she deserves!
Festoon her life with praises!

Proverbs 31:10-31

(The Message)

On Our Hearts: Journey of Faith

This particular blog post and prayer is going to be a little personal. Here Micki will share with us an event that changed her life forever. Although Micki's circumstances may be a bit different from the rest of ours, I believe that we can all see a little of ourselves in her faith journey.

Ten years ago today, my life changed. At the time, most would have said for the worse given the circumstances, but I will just say it changed. On that day, I suffered many physical injuries as well as a traumatic brain injury. The memories I have are choppy at best. I had many physical injuries to deal with that left me at times unable to care for myself. Of my four limbs, only my left leg was un-injured, this made it hard to get around as you can imagine. The healing process was difficult and long. There were numerous surgeries, months and months of very limited mobility. I don’t have very many clear memories of the time, and have very fuzzy memories of my sisters wedding. I do remember laying flat on my back unable to care for myself and thinking ‘God, did you really need to get my attention that bad? Was I that lost that it really took you putting me here on my back unable to move, to get my attention?’ Now, I am not saying He created the accident to get my attention, but wow, it got my attention and I was in a position to do nothing but listen and seek.

The physical injuries and recovery took well over two years, but that was the easy part of the recovery as I look back. The hardest part was the brain injury. It is easy to describe to someone a broken arm, leg, or knee surgery, but it is hard to describe the mental and cognitive injuries. It is hard for someone to grasp the concept of not being able to read and comprehend what the words mean anymore. When I say my head felt like it was wrapped in cotton balls and I was trying to find my way out, not many can relate. The emotional volatility I experienced was so severe. I was unable to multitask, read and comprehend it, or hold a normal conversation. Often the words that came out of my mouth did not make any sense and I could not ‘find’ the words that I was looking for.

A few years ago someone asked me how I got through it. It sounded so ridiculous to me. Why would I choose to lay there and write my life off? Just because I had challenges didn’t mean that I couldn’t get some sort of life back. I basically had two choices: to lay there and let it get the best of me or try to be myself again. When I say get myself back it was more about accepting who I had become as a result of the accident and in a way grieving the loss of my old self. I had to realize I would not and will not ever be who I was, or have the exact same personality. But I know now that is ok.

During this time, I can only credit my faith for this success. I truly believe without it, I would have not made even one-fourth of the recovery I have made. Why? It was hard work. It was the hardest thing I have ever done. Marine Corps boot camp was easy compared to the rehab and battle I did. It was day in and day out with no or very little progress. Week after week of the same thing wondering if I improved at all, days and days of crying because I couldn’t stop. ‘Brain storms’ where I was so overwhelmed I could not do, think, or function. Through the fuzz, I had to keep holding on to the fact I could ‘get better’. My then boyfriend, now husband was amazing. He accepted me exactly how I was. It was ok not to be the old Micki.

Before the accident I was lost, a bit of a risk taker, I had a career but no real commitments. I only had as many possessions that I could pack up the car and leave. If I felt like moving I could, where I ended up I would. Of course that is not what happened. I have been married for almost 8 years and we have 2 young girls. I am so thankful for my life; for my experiences. I still struggle and am reminded daily of my injuries. Many days with physical pain and every day the cognitive challenges that remain. I have recovered well and adjusted. I have been taught many modifications, but daily I have to work at them.

I am no longer bitter, I am not sorry it happened. I am grateful for my faith. I am grateful for my family. I am thankful for each day and the challenges they present. For the gift of my family and for my husband accepting me for who I am today. I look at the world with a grateful heart and I am grateful to my God for my second chance.


Father God,

So many of us have our story, our battles we have fought. Today I just want to say thank you for mine. At many times in the past I have not been as forgiving or compassionate as I should have been. I am now ready to give it to you. It has taken years of you working on my heart to lift some bitterness. You are my God. I thank you for standing by me and being my companion during this journey.


Amen


"Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you." Deuteronomy 31:6